histamine

American  

[his-tuh-meen, -min] / ˈhɪs təˌmin, -mɪn /

Also histamin

noun

1. Biochemistry, Physiology. a heterocyclic amine, C 5 H 9 N 3 , released by mast cells when tissue is injured or in allergic and inflammatory reactions, causing dilation of small blood vessels and smooth muscle contraction.

2. Pharmacology. a commercial form of this compound, obtained from histidine and used chiefly in the diagnosis of gastric and circulatory functions.

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histamine British  

/ -mɪn, ˈhɪstəˌmiːn, ˌhɪstəˈmɪnɪk /

noun

1. an amine formed from histidine and released by the body tissues in allergic reactions, causing irritation. It also stimulates gastric secretions, dilates blood vessels, and contracts smooth muscle. Formula: C 5 H 9 N 3 See also antihistamine

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histamine Scientific  

/ hĭs′tə-mēn′ /

1. An organic compound found widely in animals and plants that in humans and other mammals is released as part of the body's immune response, causing physiological changes including dilation of the blood vessels, contraction of smooth muscle (as in the airways), and increased gastric acid secretion. The itching and sneezing typical of respiratory allergies are caused by the release of histamine. Chemical formula: C ₅ H ₉ N ₃

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Other Word Forms

• histaminic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of histamine

First recorded in 1910–15; hist(idine) + -amine

Example Sentences

Histamine can dilate blood vessels in the body, which might trigger headache.

From BBC • Nov. 20, 2023

Histamine is a compound released by cells, often in response to an injury or an allergic reaction.

From Salon • Feb. 25, 2023

Histamine also increases the permeability of local capillaries, causing plasma to leak out and form interstitial fluid.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

Histamine induces the Triple Response of Lewis, an initial red line on the skin, followed by a flare around the line and then finally a weal on the skin.

From Scientific American • Jan. 30, 2013

Histamine, which is normally present in a cell but behaves only so long as the cell is healthy, is violently released and stimulated by the cell breakdown.

From Time Magazine Archive